10 Years of Impact In The North East
A Journey Fueled by Compassion, Driven by Change
Celebrating
10 Years of Impact In
The North East
Celebrating 10 Years of Impact In The North East
Sunbird Trust marks a decade of fostering peace through education.
Founder Col. Christopher Rego (Retd.) & Co-Founder Myrna Rego reflects:
As Sunbird Trust celebrates its 10th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our donors, partners, host communities, and team members who have supported us every step of the way. Our vision of “Peace through Education” has enabled us to form enduring partnerships and impact countless lives. From constructing schools to nurturing young minds and fostering hope in conflict-affected communities, our journey is a testament to the strength of unity and compassion. This milestone underscores the power of collective action, and we eagerly look forward to continuing this transformative journey together.
Stories of Change
Dr. Benjamine Khiangte
A Circle of Transformation – Born into a farming family in a remote village of Mizoram, Dr. Benjamine Khiangte grew up with limited resources but a steadfast dream of becoming a doctor. In 2004, he approached Col. Christopher Rego for support. Moved by Ben’s determination, Col. Chris and his wife, Mrs. Myrna, provided the encouragement and assistance he needed to pursue his MBBS. With their continued support, Ben earned an MD in Internal Medicine. But his journey didn’t end there. Deeply committed to giving back, he now works to uplift his village community, supports students, and sponsors children through Sunbird Trust’s programs. Today, Dr. Ben serves as a leading Consultant Gastroenterologist in Aizawl and a valued member of Sunbird Trust’s Board of Advisors. His inspiring story demonstrates the transformative power of opportunity and the ripple effect it can have on entire communities, offering hope and progress across Northeast India.
Kangembam Malemthaba
Kangembam Malemthaba, the youngest and only son among five siblings, grew up in Terakhongshangbi, a small village near the largest freshwater lake and 5 km from Moirang, in a humble farming family. He witnessed his parents’ struggles and his sisters’ selfless sacrifice of their education after 10th standard to support his studies, which made Malemthaba hesitant to pursue further studies.
After completing his Pre-University Course (PUC), he attended a government college while giving tuition to support himself. His life took a turning point when his high school principal, Fr. Lancy D Costa, introduced him to Sunbird Trust, where he received a full scholarship to complete a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering. After graduation, he returned to Sunbird Trust as a Project Engineer, overseeing infrastructure projects that uplift communities, and now, as his parents age, he is able to provide for them and support his family.
Baruisalu Onrwan
Baruisalu walked 6 km daily to attend school in rural Manipur. Sponsored by Sunbird Trust, she pursued a Master’s degree and now serves as a Sponsorship Associate, inspiring others to rise through resilience and opportunity.
Celebrating 10 Years of Impact In The North East
Overview of Sunbird Trust
Building Peace Through Education
For over a decade, Sunbird Trust has been a beacon of hope in North East India, working tirelessly in some of the most remote and conflict-affected regions. Rooted in the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for peace, our mission extends beyond classrooms to empower children, youth, and communities with sustainable opportunities for growth and harmony. Founded in 2014 by Col. Christopher Rego (Retd.), inspired by his experiences in Mizoram and Manipur, Sunbird Trust fosters trust and unity through education, livelihood support, and community development. Our unique, inclusive approach builds bridges across ethnic and social divides, creating lasting change and national integration. Join us as we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Areas of Work
School Transformation Program (STP)
Enhancing remote schools into centers of excellence and peace.
Access for All
(AFA)
Scholarships that make quality education accessible.
Government School Transformation Program (GSTP)
Collaborations to improve infrastructure and pedagogy in Arunachal Pradesh.
Teacher Training Academy
Building better teaching environments in Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh.
Solar Energy
Sustainable lighting for remote villages.
SALT Farming
Sustainable agriculture transforming hilly terrains.
An Everlasting Impact
49,223+
Annual Scholarships
34
Schools & Hostels Built
3,87,636+
Lives Transformed
What Our Stakeholders Say
“Sunbird Trust is improving education in Arunachal Pradesh’s remote Shi Yomi District through its Government School Transformation Programme. Their efforts are significantly enhancing teaching and learning in government schools, benefiting hundreds of students in these remote areas.”
– Pasang Dorjee Sona, Minister of Education, Parliamentary Affairs, Rural Works, Tourism, Libraries – Arunachal Pradesh
“Col Chris Rego’s vision for peace through education inspired Caring Friends to support Sunbird Trust since 2017.”
– Mr. Babu Joseph, Volunteer, Caring Friends, Ex-CEO, Axis Bank Foundation
“Working with Sunbird Trust has been enriching, driven by a shared vision of impactful change. The team’s dedication to quality education in remote North East communities is truly inspiring.”
– Wilfred Barboza, Vice President, Sustainability & CSR, Axis Bank Limited
“I believe Sunbird does more to bring peace and harmony in the conflict zone than any other initiative I can think of.”
– Mr. C Balalgopal, Trustee, ANAHA Trust
“Our visits to Sunbird schools showed happy, excited, and cheerful children, reflecting their great work in conflict-affected areas.”
– Mrs. Vinita Nambiar, Decade-long Sunbird Supporter
“Sunbird Trust has transformed AFS, Kachai, improving infrastructure, teacher training, nutrition programs, and student sponsorships. Their innovative ideas are changing students’ perspectives on education.”
– Mr. Mataisang Shirak, Principal, Alpha Friendship School
“As an alumnus and teacher at AFS Kachai, I’ve witnessed Sunbird’s transformative impact. Improved infrastructure, innovative methods, and professional growth for teachers have been remarkable.”
– William Kho, Staff, Alpha Friendship School
“Sunbird eased my financial burden by fully sponsoring my children’s education and meeting their nutritional needs. My heartfelt thanks to Sunbird for this life-changing support.”
– Mrs. Pangamla Horam, Parent, Alpha Friendship School
“Sunbird eased my financial burden by fully sponsoring my children’s education and meeting their nutritional needs. My heartfelt thanks to Sunbird for this life-changing support.”
– Lungtiplu Balang, Student, Paangkriang Friendship Academy
Partners & Donors
